Camel hair duvets are often advertised as a premium product — warm, breathable, hypoallergenic. All of this is true. But as a manufacturer since 1994, we also know the downsides. In this guide, we honestly list the 7 disadvantages you should know before buying.
We are the BEFA editorial team, and we produce camel hair duvets ourselves in Limburg an der Lahn. We could just list the advantages. But we won't. Because a disappointed customer writes a bad review — and we don't want that.
1. The Price — Significantly Higher Than Synthetics or Sheep's Wool
Camel hair is not a bulk raw material. The undercoat (baby camel hair) is obtained only once a year during the natural shedding process in Mongolia, China, or Iran. Only about 3–5 kg of raw fiber are obtained per camel, of which only about 20% can be used as fine undercoat after sorting.
The result: A high-quality camel hair duvet in 135×200 cm is noticeably more expensive than comparable virgin wool or microfiber duvets. If you only decide based on price, you won't be happy here.
2. Sensitive to Washing — Not Every Machine is Suitable
Camel hair is an animal protein fiber. This means: Water that is too hot, too much mechanical action, or the wrong detergent leads to felting. We recommend the wool program at a maximum of 30 °C with wool detergent — and only if the machine has a capacity of at least 6 kg.
If you have a smaller household machine or no dry cleaner nearby, you should consider this before buying. More on this in our guide: Washing a Camel Hair Duvet Without Felting.
3. Susceptible to Moths
Like all animal natural fibers, camel hair attracts clothes moths — especially if the duvet is stored unused in summer. Our recommendation: Store it in a breathable cotton bag, not in plastic. Add cedar or lavender sachets.
4. Perceived Weight — Lighter Than Down Duvets
Camel hair typically weighs 200–300 g/m² depending on the filling weight. Those accustomed to the typical "weight" of a heavy down duvet may find a camel hair duvet unusually light on first use. This is not a quality defect — on the contrary, the insulating performance comes from trapped air in the crimped fiber, not from weight. Nevertheless: For people who value an "enveloping" feeling, this takes some getting used to.
5. Limited Availability of Genuine 100% Quality
Many duvets on the market are advertised as "camel hair" but contain only 30–60% camel hair, mixed with virgin wool or polyester. Only pure 100% camel hair filling provides full temperature regulation and breathability. When buying, pay attention to the exact composition. All BEFA camel hair duvets contain 100% pure camel hair.
6. Drying Time After Washing
A washed camel hair duvet needs 24–48 hours to air dry completely. Tumble dryers are only allowed on a gentle cycle at low temperatures — and even then, they are not ideal. If you want a spare duvet: Useful during transitional seasons.
7. Acclimation Odor in the First Few Days
Newly unpacked camel hair duvets have a slight animalic-warm inherent smell. This usually dissipates within 3–7 days with outdoor airing. Those sensitive to natural odors should be aware of this. The smell is not a defect, but proof of the untreated natural fiber.
Conclusion: Who is the camel hair duvet still suitable for?
Despite these disadvantages, camel hair remains the best choice for many people:
- Night sweaters benefit from the high moisture regulation (up to 33% of its own weight in moisture, without feeling damp).
- Allergy sufferers who react to down will find an alternative in NOMITE-certified camel hair duvets.
- People who want durable products — a well-maintained camel hair duvet lasts 10–15 years.
- Sustainability-conscious buyers, as camel hair is a byproduct of the natural shedding process and is not bred specifically for textiles.
If you can consciously accept the 7 disadvantages, you will get a premium product with a BEFA camel hair duvet that surpasses other natural fibers in thermoregulation and breathability in most cases.
Reading Tip
- Camel Hair vs. Down Duvet: The Honest Comparison
- Washing a Camel Hair Duvet Without Felting
- Camel Hair Duvet 155×220 — The Oversize
About BEFA — Manufacturer Since 1994
BEFA has been manufacturing high-quality bedding since 1994 in Limburg an der Lahn. Our camel hair duvets are made from 100% pure camel hair, are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, and bear the NOMITE seal for house dust allergy sufferers. All products are manufactured in-house — no intermediaries, no contract manufacturing. Learn more about BEFA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are camel hair duvets really hypoallergenic?
Yes, if they are NOMITE-certified (suitable for house dust allergy sufferers). True camel hair allergies are rare. If you have a wool allergy, please test beforehand.
How long does a camel hair duvet last?
With proper care, 10–15 years. Regular airing (weekly) and annual fluffing significantly extend its lifespan.
Can I wash the duvet in the washing machine?
Yes — with the wool program at 30 °C, wool detergent, without fabric softener. The machine should have a capacity of at least 6 kg.
Why does my new camel hair duvet smell?
A slight inherent odor is normal for untreated natural fibers. It dissipates within 3–7 days with outdoor airing.
What is the difference between camel hair and camel hair wool?
"Camel hair" often refers to the entire fleece, while "camel hair wool" specifically refers to the fine undercoat (baby camel hair). High-quality duvets exclusively use the undercoat.